ESM Kolea 2-3 ES Mostaganem: Five-Goal Thriller Ends in Away Win

ES Mostaganem edged a pulsating encounter at the Stade de Kolea on October 13, 2026, beating ESM Kolea 3-2 in a match that swung both ways. The visitors showed resilience to come from behind and claim all three points in this Algerian Ligue Professionnelle 2 clash.

Match Overview

ESM Kolea started brightly and took the lead on 14 minutes through a fine individual effort from winger Amine Bouziane, who cut inside and curled the ball into the far corner. ES Mostaganem responded well and equalized on 28 minutes when striker Mohamed Cherif tapped in from close range after a goalmouth scramble. The game turned again just before half-time: Kolea regained the lead on 42 minutes through a header from center-back Yacine Benali, making it 2-1 at the break.

The second half was a different story. ES Mostaganem came out with renewed urgency and levelled on 58 minutes when substitute Karim Belarbi scored with a low shot from the edge of the area. The visitors then took the lead for the first time on 74 minutes, Cherif grabbing his second with a powerful strike from a narrow angle. Kolea pushed for an equalizer but found Mostaganem's defense resolute, and the away side held on for a valuable 3-2 win.

Key Moments

• 14' – Goal: Amine Bouziane curls in to give Kolea the lead.
• 28' – Goal: Mohamed Cherif equalizes for ES Mostaganem.
• 42' – Goal: Yacine Benali heads Kolea back in front.
• 58' – Goal: Karim Belarbi makes it 2-2.
• 74' – Goal: Cherif scores his second to put Mostaganem ahead.
• 89' – Save: Mostaganem goalkeeper makes a crucial stop to deny Kolea.

Tactical Story

ESM Kolea began with a high press and looked to dominate, but as the game wore on, their energy levels dropped. ES Mostaganem, on the other hand, grew into the contest, with their midfield trio of Belarbi, Cherif, and Boudjemaa taking control after the break. The visitors' ability to switch play from side to side stretched Kolea's defense, and their winning goal came from a quick transition. Kolea's manager made attacking substitutions to chase the game, but it left them exposed at the back, and Mostaganem capitalized.

Standout Players

Mohamed Cherif (ES Mostaganem): Two goals and a constant threat, his movement and finishing were top-class.

Karim Belarbi (ES Mostaganem): The substitute changed the game with his energy and equalizing goal.

Amine Bouziane (ESM Kolea): The winger was Kolea's best player, scoring a superb goal and causing problems all afternoon.

Season Impact

This win lifts ES Mostaganem into the promotion mix, just three points off the top spot. Their away form is becoming a real asset, and they will fancy their chances of challenging for a return to Ligue 1. ESM Kolea, meanwhile, remain in the bottom half after another frustrating result. They have now conceded three or more goals in three of their last five matches, and defensive reinforcements may be needed. Next up, Kolea visit El Bayadh, while Mostaganem host USM Blida in a top-of-the-table showdown.